Sri Lanka: Bar Association calls for protesting crowds to vacate PM's residential premises

Sri Lankan Bar Association has published a statement in response to country's political crisis and requested responsible behaviour from all parties. Prime Minister's Office at Flower Road has been occupied by protesting masses, which has caused great concern among Bar Association of Sri Lanka (BASL), according to a statement released.

Furr, BASL urged protesters to hand over aforementioned property to law enforcement officials right away. statement went on to say that while BASL would continue to support rights of peaceful demonstration, it opposes unconstitutional conditions of lawlessness or chaos. Additionally, according to BASL, attempting to occupy government buildings or dam or destroy property does t qualify as peaceful protest.

"It is necessary at this time for Speaker, Prime Minister and leaders of all political parties in Parliament, and citizens to understand fragile situation of nation and to act with utmost responsibility and with a sense of sacrifice in best interests of country. It is also incumbent on m to act in good faith and prevent creation of a situation that could lead to breakdown of Rule of Law," statement read.

Sri Lanka Crisis

In midst of an intensifying ecomic crisis that resulted in  takeover of president's office and home last weekend as well as torching of prime minister's private mansion, president of Sri Lanka departed nation. Rajapaksa's departure follows months of widespread demonstrations protesting price hikes, food shorts, and fuel shorts. country's foreign exchange reserves have nearly depleted, and interest on its debt has already stopped being paid on time.

Basic things are w much more expensive in island nation. re have also been several power outs. healthcare system is on verge of collapsing due to a drug scarcity. According to officials, re is insufficient fuel in country to support basic services such as buses, trains, and medical vehicles, and re is insufficient foreign money to import more.

Due to a paucity of fuel, price of gasoline and diesel has risen dramatically since beginning of year. government prohibited selling of gasoline and diesel for n-essential cars for two weeks in late June. It is thought to be first country to do so since 1970s. Fuel sales remain highly restricted. To save supplies, people have been advised to work from home, and schools have been shuttered.

Im: AP